Facilitating MentorPlace Activities

MentorPlace projects provide a number of ideas for online conversation topics, which allow a mentor and student to begin a discussion around a particular question or problem. However, mentors often wonder how to extend these interactions beyond the completion of a single activity.

Below are links to examples of IBM
e-mentoring activities. For each project,

we have included tips for facilitating the activities
as well as examples of mentor postings that encourage students
to think about an activity from a different perspective or approach.
These examples demonstrate different ways in which mentors can
engage students in online exchanges. While the examples offer
some guidance to mentors in how to approach or continue an online discussion, it is important to keep in mind that every student is unique;
mentors will have to find the approach that works best for their particular
mentoring relationship.


			It may be useful to think about three different approaches to engaging students in discussion around the activities: Making a Personal Connection In this approach, a mentor highlights a statement or idea that the student includes in a posting and identifies a personal connection with that statement. Connecting with the World In this approach, the mentor makes connections between the activity and the world, beyond school walls. Thinking About Content In this approach, the mentor focuses on the educational content of the activity, drawing the student's attention to the skills and processes presented.

			Once you've reviewed these examples, consider how you might use one or a combination of any of the three approaches in your own responses to your student. These are meant to be examples that you can reflect on and use as inspiration for your own postings. In the end, it is important that mentors and students find the approach that works best for them.

			Click on one of the links below to see an example of an e-mentoring activity: General Strategies for MentorPlace Activities Getting Started: Introducing Me Career Development: What Does Your Future Hold? Mathematics: Math About You